6 Worst Communication Mistakes You Can Make

Posted January 21, 2016 by Shelby Neat

Communication is defined as “the imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using some other medium”. It therefore has a number of uses such as the way we form impressions of people and as a result it helps build a foundation for relationships. Communicating inappropriately and ineffectively could eventually lead to an interference with any attempts to build better relationships with other professionals.

Communication is what builds careers and relationships, to avoid a career setback avoid 6 communication mistakes within the workplace.

Here are the 6 Worst Communication Mistakes You Can Make In The Workplace

1. Being too negative: We all know that it is natural to have negative feelings and thoughts. If expressed in the correct way these can be successfully used as constructive criticism which is beneficial for both parties. However if the levels of negativity become too much you will be perceived as a negative person which can push people away from communication with you all together! Staying positive in all situations is key to great communication. One way to improve positivity in the workplace is to engage the team in a fun and rewarding staff day out to take them away from the office environment and encourage positive communication.

2. Interrupting: A conversation is described as “a talk between two or more people, in which news and ideas are exchanged”. The fact that there are always at least two people in a conversation implies that a balanced one is going to be a successful one. One of the most irritating communication mistakes that someone can make is to interrupt someone before they have finished speaking. This is one of the biggest signs of disrespect you can show in a conversation. It can show that you are not listening to them and is therefore better to be patient and listen.

3. Avoiding Eye Contact: Body language is something most of us do not consider at all and is usually an automatic impression you give off to the person you’re communicating with. It can often show that you might be lying or have something to hide and therefore taking away any trust in you. Avoiding eye contact can also be a sign that you’re uninterested in what they have to say resulting in unbalanced communication.

4. Not Being Assertive: Assertiveness is an important quality to have as it shows you are self-assured and confident without being aggressive. This is an important mode of communication and it enables you to state what you need whilst considering the wants and needs of others. In the workplace you are much more likely to reach compromises and get what you need because you are clearer about your ideas.

5. Incorrect Use Of Email: The modern workplace has seen the increased use of emails, text messages and instant messages. This development has made it easier and quicker for us to communicate with loved ones and family. This form of communication should not be used when delivering bad news or any information or news that could be misunderstood or have an emotional impact. Speaking to someone in person should always be a priority in this situation enabling a colleague the opportunity to give some feedback. A more balanced conversation can happen when the person is approached in person.

6. One Way Communication: We have all experienced one way communication one way or a another whether it was listening to a speech at school or listening to the radio. The trouble with this is that it involves listening to but not responding to. This is an extremely unbalanced way to communicate and lowers the chances of an employee demonstrating creativity and idea sharing. Two way communication can always help to make sure the receiver of the information has understood it accurately and can relay and feedback they have. Team days out can be used as a way to discuss and communicate more socially about any issues and therefore result in perfect workplace harmony.

Contact us if you need a team day out to improve communication in the workplace